Devices and methods for perfusion therapy

ABSTRACT

Devices, methods, and assemblies for perfusion therapy including cerebral perfusion therapy such as those for use in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. The treatment includes delivery of blood to or about the vicinity of a thrombus site.  1 . The device, assembly, and methods embodying features of the present invention NPS device employ suction/aspiration to assist in the removal of obstructions and/or to provide embolic protection from debris liberated during treatment.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation in part of and claims priority from allowed U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/094,758, entitled “DEVICES AND METHODS FOR PERFUSION THERAPY,” by Baxter et al., filed on Dec. 2, 2013, which claims priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/702,245 which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,622,992, entitled “DEVICES AND METHODS FOR PERFUSION THERAPY,” by Baxter et al., filed on Feb. 8, 2010, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/150,783, entitled “Devices and Methods for Perfusion Therapy,” by Baxter et al., filed on Feb. 8, 2009; and Ser. No. 61/263,790, entitled “Devices and Methods for Perfusion Therapy,” by Baxter et al., filed on Nov. 23, 2009; the full disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention is directed to perfusion devices and methods, in particular to devices and methods for cerebral perfusion therapy, including those for use in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke.

All publications, patents, and published patent applications referred to herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Stroke is one of the most devastating medical conditions our society faces. The American Heart Association reports that stroke occurs every 45 seconds, accounting for 1 in 16 deaths, with about 750,000 cases in the United States in 2008. It is the second leading cause of death worldwide and the number one reason for nursing home admissions each year in the United States. It can affect individuals at any age, including the very young.

Stroke occurs when the arteries leading to, or within, the brain become interrupted. Such a blood vessel may become blocked (ischemic stroke) or may rupture (hemorrhagic stroke). Ischemic stroke, caused by blockage of blood flow, is the most common type of stroke. Once the brain is deprived of blood, and thereby the oxygen which it carries, affected brain tissue becomes dysfunctional and ever increasing, potentially irreversible, tissue damage ensues.

Stroke represents a medical emergency and is a potentially reversible process. When large vessels are involved, stroke may be associated with the irreversible destruction of approximately one hundred and twenty million neurons each hour the obstructing lesion (“thrombus”) goes untreated. Rapid reperfusion and removal of the thrombus is critically important. The obstructing lesion that interrupts the carotid arterial or cerebral arterial circulation may originate from below the brain, such as in the heart, or form in situ within the arterial circulation itself. Large vessel strokes most frequently involve the territory of the Middle Cerebral artery. Shortly after a thrombus interrupts blood flow to a large artery in the brain, the “Core” area of brain tissue, most severely lacking in blood flow, will begin a process of irreversible cell damage. This area is surrounded by a zone (“the Ischemic Penumbra”) that eventually will be irreversibly damaged if blood is not restored within short order. The goal of stroke therapy is to provide blood flow to the “Core” and “Penumbral” areas as rapidly as possible. While there are many types of stroke symptoms, indicative of ischemia to these regions, the most common symptoms are sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, and/or leg on one side of the body. Rapid symptom recognition and transport to an appropriate hospital is critical so that treatment to reverse this ischemic process can be attempted.

Prior to 1996, no approved treatment to reverse brain ischemia in acute stroke was available. In 1996 the pharmaceutical compound tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) received approval by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. This drug could, in some cases, stop and reverse stroke by dissolving the obstructing thrombus. The benefit of t-PA, however, is limited in that it has significant clinical benefit in only approximately 12% of patients who receive it as therapy for acute ischemic stroke. Furthermore, in the case of ischemic stroke due to obstruction at the level of the large proximal vessels of the brain, i.e., proximal Middle Cerebral Artery, Basilar, or Internal Carotid Artery less than 10% of patients treated benefit significantly. Current FDA restrictions limit utilization of t-PA to administration within three hours from onset of stroke symptom. Furthermore, numerous other exclusion criteria exist such that less than 5% of patients who experience a stroke in the United States actually receive t-PA yearly. Due to an ever increasing number of people over age 65 (and the expected 2.5-fold increase in atrial fibrillation over the next 50 years) a steady rise in the number of strokes due to large vessel embolic occlusions is expected. As the population ages, therefore, not only is the total number of ischemic stroke per year expected to increase but so is the percentage of strokes amenable to endovascular therapies. This underscores the tremendous opportunity to develop a rapid neuro-protectant device whose function is immediate large vessel arterial reperfusion. As the total cost to society of ischemic stroke for the period of 2005 to 2050 was recently projected to be $2.2 trillion the introduction of new technologies to mitigate stroke impact are of the utmost priority.

New devices designed for mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke have been approved for use by FDA. One such device, the “MERCI” device (“Mechanical Embolus Removal in Cerebral Ischemia”, manufactured by Concentric Medical, Mountain View, Calif.) is used to extracting and removing thrombus from the brain of acute stroke patients. A second endovascular device, operating on the principle of suction (the Penumbra device), has also received FDA approval for use in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Although FDA approval oft-PA and certain endovascular devices represents a significant advancement in the field of stroke medicine, the majority of patients experiencing large strokes today still demonstrate poor outcomes. Therefore, there still exists a great need for improved devices and methods for rapid cerebral tissue reperfusion for patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke. The present invention, addresses this and many other needs in this area.

SUMMARY

The present invention relates to treatments, devices, systems, and assemblies, which allow for and/or enable the passage of blood, oxygen, lytic therapy, neuroprotectants and thrombectomy devices, directly through or in the vicinity of an obstructing thrombus.

In an embodiment, the devices and methods of the present invention may be useful in cerebral perfusion therapy, and particularly to treat ischemic stroke.

The present devices and methods provide sufficient blood flow and oxygenation to help minimize neuronal tissue damage thus enhancing clinical recovery of a stroke patient. In an embodiment, the present devices and methods provide blood and/or oxygen to a target vessel of interest, rapidly reperfusing brain tissue and thereby mitigating the ischemic process and minimizing brain cell death. An important predictor of good outcome in the treatment of such strokes, including treatment with endovascular devices, appears to be time to reperfusion of blood to brain tissue. Extraction of an obstructing thrombus deep within the brain of a stroke patient is a tedious and time consuming process even for highly skilled interventionalists. Numerous endovascular studies demonstrate that endovascular thrombectomy therapy for acute stroke may be a lengthy procedure, with durations often of over one to two hours, during which time brain cells lack critical nutrients essential for viability thereby increasing likelihood of patient morbidity and death. As such, and without intending any limitations, it is believed that the present devices and methods facilitate down-stream blood flow to the brain of patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke for the purpose of enhancing clinical recovery.

In an embodiment, the treatments, and methods, embodying features of the present invention, include the use of a new device and/or system and/or assembly embodying features of the present invention. The present system is referred to as the Neuronal Protection System (“hereafter for purposes of brevity, referred to as “NPS”), including a Neuronal Protection Device (“hereafter for purposes of brevity, referred to as “NPD”).

In an embodiment an assembly for perfusion therapy includes a an outer catheter including an elongate member having proximal and distal ends, proximal and distal portions, an inner lumen extending along at least the distal portion, and a plurality of apertures disposed along the distal portion and extending from an outer surface of the elongate member to the inner lumen. The apertures aid in the delivery of any one or more of blood, therapeutic, diagnostic, or other suitable fluids through the outer catheter and/or inner catheter to or to the vicinity of the thrombus site. The distal end of the outer catheter may be tapered in the distal direction. Without intending any limitations, it is believed that the distal taper, in some embodiments, may minimize hemolysis of the blood at the treatment site, as will be further explained below. The tapered distal end may aid in navigating through the thrombus during advancement of the device.

In one embodiment, the assembly further includes an inner catheter including an elongate member having proximal and distal ends, proximal and distal portions, a lumen extending along at least the distal portion. The inner catheter is configured for movable disposal adjacent the apertures of the outer catheter and to movably at least partially obstruct the apertures. In an embodiment, the inner catheter is configured for movable disposal within the inner lumen of the outer catheter and to movably at least partially obstruct the apertures. The elongate member of the inner catheter may be a tubular member or a retractable sheath. The inner catheter may be disposed on the exterior of the outer catheter. The blood or other suitable fluids may be directed from the perfusion pump through the inner lumen of the inner catheter, as when the inner catheter is disposed within the inner lumen of the outer catheter, and through the outer catheter aperture to the desired treatment site. In some embodiments where the inner catheter is disposed on the exterior surface of the outer catheter, blood or other suitable fluids may be pumped through the inner lumen of the outer catheter.

In an embodiment, the assembly further includes a guide catheter having an inner lumen configured to receive the outer catheter therein. The inner catheter, depending on the design may be disposable within the inner lumen of the outer catheter or longitudinally in between the guide catheter and the outer catheter (as when the inner catheter is disposed on the exterior of the outer catheter). The assembly may also include a guidewire disposable in the inner lumen of the inner catheter and/or outer catheter to aid in the advancement of the device within the patient's body.

In an embodiment, a perfusion system includes a outer catheter including an elongate member having proximal and distal ends, proximal and distal portions, an inner lumen extending along at least the distal portion, and a plurality of apertures disposed along the distal portion and extending from an outer surface of the elongate member to the inner lumen. The apertures aid in the delivery of any one or more of blood, therapeutic, diagnostic, or other suitable fluids through the outer catheter and/or inner catheter to or to the vicinity of the thrombus site. The distal end of the outer catheter may be tapered in the distal direction. The system further includes an inner catheter including an elongate member having proximal and distal ends, proximal and distal portions, a lumen extending along at least the distal portion. The inner catheter is configured for movable disposal adjacent the apertures of the outer catheter and to movably at least partially obstruct the apertures. In an embodiment, the inner catheter is configured for movable disposal within the inner lumen of the outer catheter and to movably at least partially obstruct the apertures. The elongate member of the inner catheter may be a tubular member or a retractable sheath. The inner catheter may be disposed on the exterior of the outer catheter. The blood or other suitable fluids may be directed from the perfusion pump through the inner lumen of the inner catheter, as when the inner catheter is disposed within the inner lumen of the outer catheter, and through the outer catheter aperture to the desired treatment site. The system further includes a perfusion pump fluidically connectable to either or both the outer catheter and inner catheter and is configured to actively supply blood to a thrombus site through the outer catheter/inner catheter. In some embodiments where the inner catheter is disposed on the exterior surface of the outer catheter, blood or other suitable fluids may be pumped through the inner lumen of the outer catheter.

In an embodiment, the blood is provided to the perfusion pump by way of a conduit in fluid communication with the patient's own blood supply. In an embodiment, the blood is delivered from the perfusion pump to the patient under pressure. The blood may be cooled prior to being pumped from the perfusion pump to the patient. The blood pumped to the patient may be hyper-oxygenated such that the patient may receive oxygen, normally up to 100% FIO₂. In one embodiment, the hyper-oxygenation of the blood supply from the patient may be done by placing the patient on an external mechanical ventilator, thus providing hyper-oxygenated blood to be perfused via the NPS system.

An embodiment of method for perfusion therapy of a patient includes providing a perfusion device including a outer catheter including an elongate member having proximal and distal ends, proximal and distal portions, an inner lumen extending along at least the distal portion, a plurality of apertures disposed along the distal portion and extending from an outer surface of the elongate member to the inner lumen; and an inner catheter including an elongate member having proximal and distal ends, proximal and distal portions, a lumen extending along at least the distal portion, the inner catheter configured for disposal adjacent the apertures of the outer catheter and to movably at least partially obstruct the apertures. In an embodiment, the inner catheter is configured for disposal within the inner lumen of the outer catheter and to movably at least partially obstruct the apertures. The method further includes providing a perfusion pump fluidically connectable to the perfusion device and configured to actively supply blood to a thrombus site through the outer catheter and/or the inner catheter.

The method further includes advancing intracorporeally the outer catheter and the inner catheter through a patient's artery to a treatment site distal to a thrombus site; retracting the inner catheter proximally to expose at least a portion of the apertures; and pumping blood from the perfusion pump through the outer catheter and/or inner catheter to a treatment site distal to the thrombus site.

In an embodiment of a method, the inner catheter is disposed within the inner lumen of the outer catheter prior to advancement within the patient's body. The inner catheter may be moved proximally within the perfusion catheter lumen to at least substantially obstruct the apertures which are within the thrombus area prior to delivering blood and/or therapeutic and/or diagnostic fluids from the pump to the treatment site.

The blood may be cooled prior to being pumped into the patient. Blood may be supplied from the patient's own blood supply to the perfusion pump. This supplied blood may be withdrawn from the patient real time during the performance of the procedure. The blood pumped to the patient may be hyper-oxygenated such that the patient may receive oxygen, normally up to 100% FIO₂. In one embodiment, the hyper-oxygenation of the blood supply from the patient may be done by placing the patient on an external mechanical ventilator, thus providing hyper-oxygenated blood to be perfused via the NPS system.

In an embodiment, the method further includes revascularizing the thrombus site. The revascularization may be performed by advancing an endovasulcar thrombectomy device through the outer catheter and/or inner catheter and performing a thrombectomy procedure.

In an embodiment, the outer and/or inner catheter, independently, have variable flexibility along at least a length thereof. The outer and/or inner catheter, in an embodiment, have greater flexibility in the distal direction.

In an embodiment the outer catheter has a distally tapered distal portion including a distal end. The distal end includes a plurality of apertures extending from an outer surface of the outer catheter to an inner lumen of the outer catheter. The apertures, in an embodiment have an oblong shape having a first transverse dimension and second transverse dimension substantially less than the first transverse dimension.

In some embodiments, the apertures are equally distributed along the outer catheter distal end. In an embodiment, the distance between the apertures remains the same. In an embodiment, the first transverse dimension of the apertures shortens in the distal direction as the apertures near the distal tip. In some embodiments, the apertures first dimension as it shortens distally, still remains substantially larger than the second transverse dimension of the same aperture.

In an embodiment, the oblong apertures form a helix. The helix, in an embodiment, has a plane tangent to a centerline of the catheter, forming an angle α therewith, ranging from about 20 to about 85 degrees, from about 30 to about 80 degrees, normally about 40 degrees. In operation, the oblong apertures provide a fluid flow direction of less than about 90 degrees (e.g., acute) as measured from the surface of the catheter distal end thus providing for a more forward fluid flow.

In an embodiment, the neuronal protection device or NPS including the outer catheter, inner catheter, and guidewire, is sufficiently flexible to bend, at its tapered distal portion, to provide an angle up to about 180 degrees, relative to the catheter in the unbent and straightened configuration. This configuration allows the NPS, in operation, to navigate the intracranial portions of the internal carotid artery which have a 180 degree bend. In an embodiment, the tapered distal portion configured to provide such a bend angle, has a length sufficiently long to navigate the cavernous section of the internal carotid artery. In an embodiment, the distal portion is configured to bend back on itself (e.g., about 180 degrees) over a distance of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, the portion of the tapered distal portion configured to provide such a bend, is the distal end. In an embodiment, the distal end, of the device, normally the entire distal end, is configured to provide a bend angle of at least or about 180 over a distance of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, and in operation, the NPS, in the bent configuration, at its distal end, may have a bend radius of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, and in operation, the outer catheter, in the bent configuration, at its distal end, may have a bend radius of at least or about 10 mm.

In some embodiments, in operation, any one or more of the following may be practiced according to the methods embodying features of the present invention: perfusion of blood or other fluids (e.g., thrombolytic agents) through either the outer catheter or the inner catheter; perfusion of blood, TPA, or other fluids simultaneously through both the inner and outer catheters; or perfusion of blood through the inner catheter with the inner catheter distal tip positioned distal to the clot while simultaneously infusing fluids such as tissue plasminogen activator (“TPA) or other thrombolytic agent/s through the outer catheter with its distal tip positioned substantially or entirely in the clot.

In some embodiments, the NPS device, embodying features of the present invention, has the ability to incorporate suction/aspiration for the purposes of: a) assisting in the removal of a blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body and/or; b) providing embolic protection from debris liberated during mechanical thrombectomy and/or suction thromboaspiration.

In operation, using suction/aspiration through the NPS device to provide embolic protection mitigates/reduces or prevents the embolic particles liberated during deployment of a thrombectomy device and subsequent mechanical thrombectomy and/or suction thromboaspiration from traveling to previously uninvolved vascular territories that can cause further infarct burden that may potentially adversely affect the patient's clinical outcome.

In an embodiment the NPS device, embodying features of the present invention, provides suction thromboaspiration through the outer catheter to assist in the removal of a blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body. In operation, the NPS device is navigated to the site of the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body and the distal end of outer catheter is positioned within the blood clot. The inner catheter is then removed from the site. Continuous suction/aspiration is applied through the outer catheter and transmitted through the side apertures at the distal end of the outer catheter so a vacuum is formed between the clot and the tip of the catheter at the level of the apertures. If the end hole of the catheter remained buried within the clot this too will contribute to the vacuum. If the opening at the distal tip is distal to the clot during aspiration, then the clot will be aspirated based on suction at the level of the side apertures buried within the clot. In this scenario the opening at the distal tip and side apertures distal to the clot will serve as an embolic protection device allowing for emboli released from the clot during aspiration to be aspirated by this more distal portion of the end initially positioned distal to the clot.

If the distal tip is buried in the clot at the time of aspiration instead, the suction pulls the clot into side apertures of outer catheter distal end and mechanically engages the clot to the outer surface of the outer catheter distal end, including the apertures, holding/grabbing the clot on the outer catheter distal end. In some embodiments, at least some of the clot is at least partially drawn into one or more of the apertures. Suction/aspiration is then continuously applied through the outer catheter and the outer catheter is slowly withdrawn proximally into the balloon guide catheter/guide catheter/sheath. This exemplary method embodying features of the present invention, is performed to remove the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body by having it held by way of suction/aspiration to the distal end of the outer catheter.

In an embodiment, the distal tip of the outer catheter is positioned partially within the clot with at least a portion of the distal end and the apertures disposed proximal the clot.

In an embodiment, once in place, the inner catheter is pulled proximally. In an embodiment the inner catheter is withdrawn from proximal end of the NPS device leaving the outer catheter distal tip positioned partially within the clot.

Continuous suction/aspiration (generated by suitable means such as a syringe or vacuum source/pump) is applied through the outer catheter and transmitted through either or both the side apertures and/or the outer catheter distal tip. The application of the suction/aspiration provides a negative pressure and/or vacuum between the clot and the catheter distal end (at either or both the outer surface of the distal end and the distal tip).

The suction pulls, all or part of the clot into side apertures and/or distal tip of outer catheter. In an embodiment, the outer catheter distal end may be mechanically engaged with all or part of the clot. This engagement aids in holding/grabbing the clot on the outer catheter distal end and/or within, at least partially, one or more of the apertures. As the NPS device engages in suction/aspiration the clot moves proximally from its original location and/or liberates from the inner wall of the vessel creating a gap.

Any liberated debris may be withdrawn into the apertures helping prevent or mitigate the movement of the embolic particles.

In an embodiment the NPS device, embodying features of the present invention, provides suction/aspiration through the outer catheter simultaneously while suction thromboaspiration is being performed through the inner catheter or any other suitable suction thromboaspiration tool that can be introduced through the outer catheter.

In operation, in an exemplary method, the NPS device provides one or both of the functions: a) assisting in the removal of a blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body and/or b) providing embolic protection from debris liberated during suction thromboaspiration.

In an embodiment of a method embodying features of the present invention, the NPS device is navigated to the site of the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body until tip of outer catheter is positioned partially within the blood clot 650, with a proximal portion of the distal end and accompanying apertures remaining outside of the clot. The inner tip of inner catheter is advanced just distal to the distal tip of the outer catheter and is disposed inside the clot.

Continuous suction/aspiration (generated by suitable means such as a syringe or vacuum source/pump) is applied, simultaneously, through the outer catheter and inner catheter, and transmitted through either or both the side apertures and/or the outer catheter distal tip, and inner catheter distal end. The application of the suction/aspiration provides a negative pressure and/or vacuum between the clot and the outer catheter distal end at either or both the outer surface of the distal end and/or apertures, and the outer catheter distal tip; as well as inner catheter distal tip.

While maintaining the suction/aspiration, the outer catheter and inner catheter, together, with their tips remaining inside the clot, are slowly withdrawn into the balloon guide catheter/guide catheter/sheath (as described earlier).

In an embodiment the NPS device, embodying features of the present invention, provides suction/aspiration through the outer catheter simultaneously during mechanical thrombectomy for removal of a blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body.

In exemplary method, in operation, the NPS device provides one or both of the functions a) assisting during the removal of a blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body and/or b) providing embolic protection from debris liberated during suction thromboaspiration.

In an embodiment, the NPS device is navigated to the site of the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body and the distal end of outer catheter is positioned within the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body.

Suction/aspiration is then continuously applied through the outer catheter. The inner catheter is advanced through the outer catheter until its distal end emerges just distal to the clot. The stentriever is advanced through the inner catheter until it emerges from the distal tip of the inner catheter. The inner catheter is withdrawn with the stentriever & the outer catheter held in place. As the inner catheter is withdrawn proximally the stentriever expands into the clot.

During deployment of a thrombectomy device and the resultant restoration of blood flow there is liberation of embolic particulate matter that travels downstream to previously uninvolved vascular territories that can cause further infarct burden that may potentially adversely affect the patient's clinical outcome.

In operation, in an exemplary method embodying features of the present invention, the continuous suction/aspiration provided through the outer catheter provides embolic protection by removing this debris liberated during deployment of a mechanical thrombectomy device.

In an embodiment, the suction/aspiration continues to be applied through the outer catheter and the outer catheter and mechanical thrombectomy device are slowly withdrawn simultaneously into the balloon guide catheter/guide catheter/sheath. This exemplary method is performed to remove the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body using simultaneous suction/aspiration through the distal end of the outer catheter and mechanical thrombectomy with the thrombectomy device. In an embodiment, the suction/aspiration being provided through the outer catheter distal end and/or distal tip continues to provide embolic protection during this procedure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is an illustration of a neuronal protection system embodying features of the present invention and as in use with a patient.

FIG. 1B is an illustration of a protection system embodying features of the present invention incorporating features for suction/aspiration.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a neuronal protection device embodying features of the present invention and including an outer catheter and inner catheter with a guidewire disposed therein.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are cross sectional views of the device of FIG. 2 taken along cross-sections AA and BB, respectively.

FIG. 3 is an illustration, partially cut away, of the neuronal protection device of FIG. 2.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are exploded views of portions of the proximal and distal portions of the device of FIG. 2, respectively.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of the perfusion device of FIG. 2 disposed in a patient's lumen proximal to a thrombus site.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of the perfusion device of FIG. 4 disposed in a patient's lumen with the perfusion device distal portion disposed distal to a thrombus site.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of the perfusion device of FIG. 5 with the guide wire removed.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of the perfusion device of FIG. 5 with the only a portion of perfusion apertures disposed distal to the thrombus.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of the perfusion device of FIG. 2 with the inner catheter removed from a guide catheter.

FIG. 9 is a graphical representation of the data presented in TABLE II.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of an alternate embodiment of a neuronal protection device embodying features of the present invention and including a distally tapered outer catheter and an inner catheter with a guide wire disposed therein.

FIG. 11A is an enlarged view of the distal portion of the neuronal protection device of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11B is an enlarged view of an alternate embodiment of the distal portion of the neuronal protection device of FIG. 10.

FIGS. 11C and 11D are enlarged views of the distal portion of the outer catheter of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11E is a partial enlarged view of the distal portion of the outer catheter of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11F is a cross sectional view of the outer catheter distal end of FIG. 11D taken along lines 11F-11F.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are cross sectional views of the device of FIG. 11A taken along cross-sections 12-12 and 13-13, respectively.

FIG. 14 is a cut away view of the outer catheter distal portion in a flattened configuration showing the elongated apertures, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 15A and 15B are illustrations of different embodiments of the distal end of the neuronal protection device of FIG. 10 shown in flexed configuration.

FIG. 16A is illustration of the flexed distal end of the neuronal protection device of FIG. 15 disposed in a patient's lumen with the outer catheter and inner catheter distal ends disposed distal to a thrombus site.

FIG. 16B is illustration of the flexed distal end of the neuronal protection device of FIG. 15 disposed in a patient's lumen with the inner catheter distal end disposed distal to the thrombus site and the distal end of the outer catheter disposed within or proximal to the thrombus site.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are illustrations of an exemplary method embodying features of the present invention with the NPS providing suction thromboaspiration through the outer catheter to assist in the removal of a blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body.

FIGS. 18A and 18B are illustrations of an exemplary method embodying features of the present invention with the NPS providing suction thromboaspiration through the outer catheter to assist in the removal of a blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body as well providing embolic protection from debris liberated during mechanical thrombectomy and/or suction thromboaspiration.

FIGS. 19A and 19B are illustrations of an exemplary method embodying features of the present invention with the NPS providing suction/aspiration through the outer catheter simultaneously while suction thromboaspiration is being performed through the inner catheter.

FIGS. 20A through 20-D are illustrations of an exemplary method embodying features of the present invention with the NPS providing suction/aspiration through the outer catheter simultaneously during mechanical thrombectomy for removal of a blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body.

FIGS. 21A through 21-D are cross sectional views of the device of FIGS. 20A through 21-D taken along its longitudinal dimension, respectively

The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and are not limiting. For clarity and ease of illustration, the drawings are not made to scale and, in some instances, various aspects may be shown exaggerated or enlarged to facilitate an understanding of particular embodiments.

DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1, an assembly 100 embodying features of the present invention is shown as set up for treating a patient 110. As shown, the assembly 100 includes a perfusion pump 120 in fluidic communication with an output femoral sheath 130 and connector 135. The Connector 135 enables movement of blood from the femoral arterial sheath which is insertable into one of the femoral arteries of the patient by being attached to the perfusion pump.

A connector 140 fluidically connects the perfusion pump 120 through port 150 of a hemostatic valve 155 to an input femoral artery sheath, 165 through connector 165. A source 170 of therapeutic and/or diagnostic fluid is also in fluid communication with the perfusion device through port 175 of the valve 155.

Now referring to FIGS. 2, 2A, and 2B, a neuronal protection device 200, embodying features of the present invention is shown, including an outer catheter 210 including an elongate member such as a tubular member 220 having distal and proximal ends, 230 and 235, distal and proximal portions, 240 and 245, and distal tip 248. An inner lumen 250 extends longitudinally at least along the distal portion of the outer catheter. The distal end includes one or more apertures 260 extending from an outer surface 265 of the outer catheter to the outer catheter inner lumen 250. The apertures aid in the delivery of any one or more of blood, therapeutic, diagnostic, or other suitable fluids through the outer catheter and/or an inner catheter to or the vicinity of the thrombus site.

In an embodiment, the distal portion 230 of the outer catheter is distally tapered. Without intending any limitations, it is believed that the distal taper, in some embodiments, may minimize hydrolysis of blood during the treatment, as will be further explained below. The tapered distal end also aids in navigating through the thrombus during advancement of the device 200. In an embodiment, the tapered distal end assists with minimizing the hemolysis of the blood at the treatment site.

An inner catheter 310, as shown, is disposed inside at least a portion of the inner lumen 250 of the outer catheter 210. The inner catheter 310 includes an elongate member such as a tubular member 320 having distal and proximal ends, 340 and 345, distal and proximal portions, 335 and 330, and a distal tip 348. An inner lumen 350 extends longitudinally at least along the distal portion of the inner catheter. As shown, the distal end of the inner catheter extends into the distal portion of the outer catheter and extends distally beyond the outer catheter distal end. The blood or other suitable fluids may be directed from the perfusion pump through the inner lumen of the inner catheter, as when the inner catheter is disposed within the inner lumen of the outer catheter, and through the outer catheter apertures to the desired treatment site, or through inner catheter's distal tip 348.

A guide wire 410, as shown, is disposed in the inner lumen 350 of the inner catheter 310, with a distal tip 448 of the guide wire 410 extending distal of the distal tip 248 of the outer catheter 210 and the distal tip 348 of the inner catheter.

Now referring to FIGS. 3, 3A and 3B, the device 200 is shown disposed in an inner lumen 550 of a guide catheter 510, and extending distally from a distal tip 548 of the guide catheter.

The outer catheter and inner catheter may be designed and constructed to meet the necessary requirements of the anatomy. In an embodiment, some of the components, construct, size, and material of the outer catheter and inner catheter may be similar to those used in delivering the MERCI device into the brain, the details of which are incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the outer catheter may normally have an internal diameter ranging from about 1.0 mm to about 1.5 mm; with the outer catheter distal tip, when tapered, having a length ranging from about 15 mm to 30 mm.

The aperture size for the outer catheter typically ranges from about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm. The typical catheter lengths for the outer catheter are in the 135 cm range and for the inner catheter, the 150 cm range.

In embodiments of methods of treatment embodying features of the present invention, one or more of the following steps may be utilized, as deemed necessary by the practitioner:

Typically, a patient exhibiting a stroke will be evaluated emergently by a medical stroke expert. A computerized tomography (CT) scan of the brain is performed to confirm that the stroke is ischemic, not hemorrhagic, and to assist in localization of the obstructing thrombus. The stroke specialist will determine if the thrombus is located within an artery supplying the brain and whether the thrombus is amenable to endovascular extraction by an interventionalist physician (as for example by using the MERCI or Penumbra device). If the patient is deemed an appropriate candidate for the procedure, the patient may undergo a standard intubation procedure (i.e., placed on a ventilator) for airway protection and to facilitate hyper-oxygenation. The patient may receive oxygen at an FIO₂ of up to 100%. The patient is then brought to the endovascular suite. Arterial access is gained by placement of a short femoral arterial sheath 130 (FIG. 1). A sheath that is large enough to allow blood withdrawal around the guide catheter/outer catheter may be selected or the operator may choose to place a second sheath 160 in the contralateral femoral artery that is for the purposes of blood delivery to the perfusion pump (FIG. 1). The blood is delivered to the perfusion pump via Connector 135.

In exemplary embodiment of a method embodying features of the present invention, thereafter, using standard angiographic technique, a guide catheter 510 will be inserted by way of the femoral sheath 160 and advanced through the aorta into one of the larger cervical arteries (the Carotid or Vertebral arteries) that supplies the occluded vessel at the base of the brain. A liquid “contrast” material is pumped through the guide catheter (an angiogram), to determine exactly where the occluding thrombus is located.

It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that the methods embodying features of the present invention, as described herein, may include any one or more of such steps not necessarily being described. Outside of the patient's body, the outer catheter 210 and inner catheter 310 are prepared for delivery by placing a rotating hemostatic valve (RHV) at the proximal end for continuous infusion of heparinized saline. The guide wire 410 is placed in the lumen 350 of the inner catheter 310 and this inner catheter/guide wire unit is then advanced through the inner lumen 250 of the outer catheter 210 until the tip of the inner catheter/guide wire extends distal to the distal tip 248 of the outer catheter.

In some embodiments, the inner catheter may serve as a platform for delivery of thrombectomy devices/lytics and/or therapeutic and/or diagnostic fluids, if desired. In an embodiment, this entire catheter combination (outer catheter/inner catheter/guide wire) is then introduced through the guide catheter 510 and advanced to the target vessel 600 using standard microcatheter techniques, as partially shown in FIG. 4. The tips of outer catheter/inner catheter/guidewire are advanced distal to the obstructing thrombus 650, as shown in FIG. 5. The guidewire is thereafter removed (See FIG. 6). It may be desirable to confirm that the outer catheter tip is located distal to the thrombus by injecting a small amount of contrast. In an embodiment in the case that only a segment of the entire length of perfusion apertures are exposed distal to the thrombus, the inner catheter may be used to deliver blood flow. The inner catheter tip is withdrawn proximally to expose the perfusion apertures.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the inner catheter tip is withdrawn proximally to expose the maximum number of perfusion apertures that are distal to the thrombus while continuing to cover (e.g., disposed adjacent the apertures so as to minimize flow of blood or other therapeutic/diagnostic fluids pumped or delivered through the outer catheter/inner catheter) the perfusion apertures that are at the level of or proximal to the thrombus. The inner catheter is then attached to the perfusion pump and perfusion is initiated with blood flow being directed to the apertures distal to the thrombus. In the case that the landing area in the artery allows exposure of the entire length of the aperture section, then the inner catheter may be removed and the outer catheter is attached to the perfusion pump and perfusion is initiated (See FIG. 8).

In an embodiment, thrombolytic agents may be used to enhance the treatment. In an embodiment, a sufficiently effective small quantity of contrast is injected through the device to demonstrate the distal end of the thrombus. Standard angiographic run is performed through the guide catheter to outline the proximal end of the thrombus. The inner catheter is withdrawn to expose the maximum number of perfusion apertures of the outer catheter. The thrombolytic agent is thereafter introduced into the desired area.

In an embodiment, it may be desirable to perform intra-arterial mechanical thrombectomy. In an embodiment, a sufficiently effective small quantity of contrast is injected to confirm that the NPS catheter tip is distal to the thrombus. A thrombectomy device is introduced through the inner catheter/PC combination and thrombectomy is performed according to device procedural guidelines, all of which by example are incorporated herein by reference (Mechanical Embolus Removal in Cerebral Ischemia”, manufactured by Concentric Medical, Mountain View, Calif.).

In an embodiment, the thrombus may have a length ranging from about 1 cm to about 18 cm. The artery “Landing Area” beyond the thrombus generally has a vessel diameter range from about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm with the thrombosed artery generally ranging from about 2.5 mm to about 4.0 mm in diameter.

The perfusion pump is similar to those used in pumping blood through the cardiac arteries during heart surgery, the details of which are incorporated herein by reference, with the additional inventive features described herein and further below.

In an embodiment, the perfusion pump incorporates a volumetric displacement pump configured to provide pressure controlled delivery of oxygenated blood at flow rates necessary to support the affected region of the brain distal to an arterial occlusion through a micro-catheter at pressures above 1,000 mm Hg. In an embodiment, the pump mechanism is a dual chamber piston pump; although, if non-continuous flow is acceptable a single chamber system could be adapted. In an embodiment, additional high pressure single-chamber pump(s) that contribute neuroprotective agent(s) to the perfusate may be used. The system may also incorporate a perfusate temperature control system to either maintain normothermia or hypothermia to reduce metabolism and aid in recovery and the mitigation of reperfusion injury. In an embodiment, the hardware of the integrated system interfaces with a sterile disposable delivery set that contains the conduits for carrying arterialized blood from the patient to the neuro-perfusion system and then to the micro catheter.

Also contained within the sterile disposable delivery set are pump cassettes that interface with the piston pumps. The sterile disposable are pump may include cassettes that interface with the piston pumps. A heat transfer device may be sued to serve as the medium for transferring heat energy to and from the perfusate. Safety devices and components including emboli detectors may further be employed. The maximum pump pressure as compared to cardiac pumps is modified to allow for pumping of blood up the outer catheter so that blood may be delivered distal to the thrombus perfusing the ischemic brain tissue at an appropriate flow rate range of 50 to 150 ml/min.

By placing the patient on an external mechanical ventilator the patient may receive oxygen at up to 100% FIO₂ thus providing hyper-oxygenated blood to be perfused via the NPS system. As seen in FIG. 1, the blood moves out of the patient's body (through the sheath in the patient's femoral artery or from a second access site), through connector 135 to the perfusion pump. The pump then delivers the blood to the outer catheter via connector 140. In an embodiment, the perfusion pump may also cool the blood, a technique called “hypothermia.” Without intending any limitations, it is believed that the cooling of the patient's blood may have a “neuro-protective effect” on the brain that delays the destruction of brain cells until blood flow is restored. The perfusion pump may also be used to add other suitable drugs to the blood, such as, but not limited to chemical “neuro-protectants” that may be of benefit when delivered directly to the stroke brain tissue.

In an embodiment, the inner catheter takes on the form of a retractable sheath disposable within the inner lumen of the outer catheter. In this embodiment, a distal end of the inner catheter may be proximally retractable by suitable means such as a wire connected to the inner catheter distal end, with a proximal end of the wire extending proximally from the proximal end of the outer catheter. In this configuration, the apertures are covered (or fluid flow may be at least partially obstructed) by the sheath and may be exposed, as desired, by retracting the sheath proximally by way of the wire. Alternatively, the sheath may be disposable over the exterior surface of the outer catheter and is retractable by suitable means such as wire. In another embodiment, the inner catheter may be a tubular member disposable over the exterior surface of the outer catheter. Retraction of the inner catheter in the proximal direction exposes the apertures for fluid delivery.

Below, are exemplary applications of the NPS devices and methods embodying features of the present invention. In first exemplary application, embodying features of the present invention, as discussed above, the NPS will be utilized as a reperfusion platform for carrying out an endovascular acute stroke procedure targeted at medium to large vessel occlusions. NPS reperfusion will be implemented at the start of the procedure to achieve instantaneous reperfusion to facilitate and restore normal oxygen levels in the ischemic penumbra thereby minimizing permanent neuronal damage. Once the initial NPS tissue rescue reperfusion step is complete, a revascularization method can be employed to obtain permanent vessel patency. If such revascularization involves utilization of a MERCI, Penumbra, or other similar devices, the NPS platform will allow that device to be inserted within and through the NPS for attempting the thrombectomy portion of the procedure. Thrombus extraction may then be performed as needed. As thrombectomy procedures often require use of multiple types of devices over several hours, continuous or cyclical NPS tissue rescue reperfusion may be utilized adjunctively during the endovascular procedure. As it is recognized that acute ischemic stroke is heterogeneous (carotid versus intracranial; embolic versus medium to large vessel in situ atherosclerotic disease), this first exemplary application of the NPS provides a general platform for neuronal rescue from which a number of therapies can be performed (including but not limited to intravenous/intra-arterial pharmacological thrombolysis, mechanical thrombus removal, stenting, or other forms of neuroprotection).

Yet it is recognized that a significant percentage of clinically devastating strokes involve vessels which due to size or location are not amenable to mechanical clot extraction (for example, lacunar stroke, distal branch MCA thrombus, etc.). In a second exemplary application, embodying features of the present invention, includes utilization of the NPS to provide neuronal protection via augmentation of collateral arterial flow (increased tissue oxygenation and egress of cytotoxic compounds), and/or localized delivery of hypothermia or other neuroprotectant directly to the ischemic vascular bed. It should be recognized that this second exemplary application may be used in conjunction with other intravenous thrombolytic or neuroprotectant therapies.

It is recognized that many acute stroke patients initially are directed to hospitals where advanced stroke care is not available. A third exemplary application embodying features of the present invention, the NPS involves its use as a generalized neuronal protection bridging device in which NPS therapy is initiated at the first responder hospital and maintained during transport to a hospital which offers the full complement of acute stroke treatment options.

In order to assess the feasibility of the devices and methods of the present invention, certain experiments were performed and data collected. This data is presented by way of example and not limitation. By way of explanation and not limitation, it is believed, that that blood flow rates in the range of about 50-150 ml/min through the catheters of the present invention into the large arteries of the brain are desired to normalize oxygen levels in the tissue. Using two catheters (a small Concentric 18L and the larger DAC), it was demonstrated, as shown in Table I below, that the present method was successful in obtaining flow rates with saline above 200 ml/min using the larger DAC catheter. This data demonstrate the feasibility of achieving the goals of the NPS. Data were generated utilizing a perfusion pump with the characteristics described above.

TABLE I Initial Saline Pressure-Flow Test Results Using Two Concentric. Micro-catheters Pressure (mm HG) Flow (ml/min) Catheter 1 - MC- 500 4 18L 1100 15 (ID = 0.019 in) 1400 18 Catheter 2 - DAC 500 88 (4.3F OD-3.3F 1100 165 ID ID = 0.044 in) 1400 265

When a similar feasibility study was performed using whole human blood similar results were obtained despite the introduction of increased viscosity. As demonstrated in Table II, a physiological relevant human blood flow rate of above 100 ml/min through a Concentric DAC microcatheter could be maintained without significantly increasing pump pressure. Furthermore, when hemolysis of whole human blood was analyzed by measuring free Hemoglobin levels during recurrent circulation though the NPS (as performed to generate the results presented FIG. 9), no significant erythrocyte hemolysis was noted. The human blood pressure-flow and hemolysis data presented in TABLES I and II were generated utilized a pump with the characteristics described above.

TABLE II Pressure-Flow Test Results Using Concentric DAC Micro-catheter Pressure Drop Data with Blood Flow Rate Sys Pressure Temperature (ml/min) (mm HG) (° C.) 0 78 36 25 287 36 50 482 37 100 1031 37 120 1135 37

FIG. 9 indicates that at the physiologically relevant blood flow rates anticipated to be generated by the NPS significant hemolysis does not occur and oxygen carrying capacity is not compromised.

Now referring to FIG. 10, an alternate embodiment of the neuronal protection device 1200 is shown, embodying features of the present invention, and including an outer catheter 1210 including an elongate member such as a tubular member 1220 having a proximal portion 1245 with a proximal end 1235, a distally tapered distal portion 1240 with a distally tapered end 1230 terminating in a distal tip 1248.

In an embodiment, the distal portion 1240 is configured, such that in operation, it is juxtaposed with the distal intracranial internal carotid artery upon full placement of the outer catheter within the brain. In an embodiment, the tapered distal portion 1240 aids in navigating through the thrombus during advancement of the device 1200. In an embodiment, and without intending any limitations, it is believed the tapered distal portion assists with minimizing the hemolysis of the blood at the treatment site. The distal tapering of the outer catheter and the relatively larger proximal bore design is further believed to minimize resistance along length of the outer catheter minimizing undesirable pressure drops during the operation of the device.

The tapered distal end 1230 may have a longitudinal dimension which is the same as that of the tapered distal portion 1240 (see FIG. 10, 11A) or shorter as shown in FIG. 11B.

The outer catheter distal end 1230, as further shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, 12, and 13, includes one or more apertures 1260 extending from an outer surface 1265 of the outer catheter to an outer catheter inner lumen 1250. The apertures aid in the delivery of any one or more of fluids such as blood, therapeutic, diagnostic, or other suitable fluids through the outer catheter to or to the vicinity of the thrombus site.

In an embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 11B, the outer catheter 1210′ has a tapered distal portion 1240′ including a distal end 1230′. As shown, the distal end 1230′, including apertures 1260′, has a longitudinal dimension which is less than the longitudinal dimension of the tapered distal portion 1240′.

Now referring to FIG. 14, the apertures 1260 are shown with the outer catheter tubular member 1220 in a flat rolled out configuration. The apertures 1260 have a first and a second transverse dimension, 1261 and 1262, respectively. An aperture may have the same or different first and second transverse dimensions from those of a neighboring aperture. The first and second transverse dimensions, may, independently, range from about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm.

In an embodiment, the first and second transverse dimensions are substantially equal. In an embodiment, the apertures have an oblong transverse shape with the first transverse dimension in a first direction being substantially greater than the second transverse dimension in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

In some embodiments, the distance between the apertures remains the same. In an embodiment, the apertures are equally distributed along the outer catheter distal end. In an embodiment, the first transverse dimension of the apertures shortens in the distal direction as the apertures near the distal tip. In some embodiments, the apertures first dimension as it shortens distally, still remains substantially larger than the second transverse dimension of the same aperture.

In an embodiment, and as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, apertures 1260, extend from the outer surface 1265 to the inner lumen 1250 of the outer catheter 1260, forming a helix 1263.

In an embodiment, and as shown in FIGS. 11C, 11D, 11E, and 11F, the helix 1263 has a plane tangent to a centerline of the catheter, forming an angle α therewith, ranging from about 20 to about 85 degrees, from about 30 to about 80 degrees, normally about 40 degrees.

In an embodiment, when the apertures' first and second dimensions are substantially similar, fluid flow from the apertures forms a perpendicular angle with the centerline axis of the shaft or the surface of the tip.

In an embodiment, the oblong (e.g., apertures with first transverse dimension being larger than the second transverse dimension) apertures provide a fluid (e.g., blood, therapeutic agents, diagnostic fluid and the like) flow direction of less than about 90 degrees (e.g., acute angle) as measured from the surface of the catheter distal end.

In an embodiment, the acute angle of the fluid flow from the oblong apertures provides for a less turbulent flow (as compared to that from an aperture having substantially similar transverse dimensions) which, is more in line with the axis of the catheter shaft thus facilitating forward fluid flow.

In an embodiment, the sum of the areas of all the apertures is equal to or greater than the cross sectional area of the outer catheter inner diameter taken at the largest outer catheter inner diameter (e.g., proximal to the proximal end of the tapered distal end).

The distal portion including the distal end, which includes the apertures, and the proximal portion may be formed as an integral part of the outer tubular member 1220, as for example formed during an extrusion process. In an alternative, the distal and proximal portions of the outer catheter tubular member may be separately formed and thereafter joined to one another by any one or more suitable means, including but not limited to: welds, adhesives, sleeves, etc., In an embodiment, the distal end of the proximal portion and the proximal end of the distal portion may form any number of joints, for example butt-joint or lap-joint (where either of the two ends may be fitted into the other). By way of example, when a welding process is used, the process may be a reflow type of process, where the distal portion and the extruded shaft are formed of the same material and placed over a mandrel and butt-welded to one another using radio frequency energy or hot air to soften the two material. By way of example, a draw-dawn operation through a tapered die may be utilized to achieve the desired taper. The apertures may be laser cut into the distal end or molded in.

Now referring back to FIGS. 10 and 11, 12, and 13, an inner catheter 1310, as shown, is disposed inside at least a portion of the inner lumen 1250 of the outer catheter 1210. The inner catheter 1310 includes an elongate member such as a tubular member 1320 having distal and proximal ends, 1340 and 1345, distal and proximal portions, 1335 and 1330, and a distal tip 1348. An inner lumen 1350 extends longitudinally along at least the distal portion of the inner catheter. As shown in FIGS. 10, 11, and 12, the distal end of the inner catheter extends into the distal portion of the outer catheter and extends distally beyond the outer catheter distal end.

In an embodiment, the outer catheter and/or the inner catheter, are configured to have variable flexibility, independently, along at least a portion of a longitudinal dimensions thereof. The variable flexibility allows for flexibility and/or kink resistance during the operation of the device.

In an embodiment, either or both of the catheters, independently, includes a plurality of portions with different stiffness values. In an embodiment, the stiffness of a relatively distal portion is less than the stiffness of a portion immediately proximal thereto.

The transition of the stiffness from a proximal portion to a distal portion (decreasing in stiffness or increasing in flexibility) for each catheter (inner or outer), independently, may be achieved by one or more ways, including, but not limited to: distal taper construction, forming the variable stiffness catheter from different material along its length, varying the thickness of the material forming the various portions, or presence or absence of additional elements (e.g., collars, layers) on a particular portion. The plurality of portions may be formed separately and then fixedly joined to one another, or may be integrally formed with one another during the construction of the catheter, for example, during extrusion or molding process.

In an embodiment, either or both of the catheters, independently, may include a proximal, an intermediate, and a distal elongate member, joined to one another by suitable means; a distal member having a lower stiffness than a member immediately proximal thereto or in the alternative a proximal member having a higher stiffness than a member immediately distal thereto.

In some embodiments, either or both of the catheters, independently, may have a proximal portion formed from material having a flexural modulus in a range from about 9,000 psi to about 250,000 psi.

In some embodiments, either or both of the catheters, independently, may have an intermediate portion formed from material having a flexural modulus in a range from about 600 psi to about 20,000 psi.

In some embodiments, either or both of the catheters, independently, may have a distal portion formed from material having a flexural modulus in a range from about 200 psi to 1,200 psi.

In some embodiments, stiffness ratio (distal portion:proximal portion) between any two adjacent variable stiffness portions may range from 0.03 to 0.8, 0.3 to 0.8, at least 0.03, at least 0.3, or at least 0.7.

Now referring to FIG. 15A, the distal portion of the perfusion device 1200 including the distal portion of the outer catheter 1210 and inner catheter 1310, and earlier shown in FIG. 11A, is shown in a flexed configuration, having a curved distal portion.

In an embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 15B, the neuronal protection device or NPS (e.g., 1200) including the outer catheter, inner catheter, and guidewire, is sufficiently flexible to bend, at its tapered distal portion, to provide an angle up to about 180 degrees, relative to the catheter in the unbent and straightened configuration. This configuration allows the NPS, in operation, to navigate the intracranial portions of the internal carotid artery that have a 180 degree bend. In an embodiment, the tapered distal portion configured to provide such a bend angle, has a length sufficiently long to navigate the cavernous section of the internal carotid artery. In an embodiment, the distal portion is configured to bend back on itself (e.g., about 180 degrees) over a distance of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, the portion of the tapered distal portion configured to provide such a bend, is the distal end. In an embodiment, the distal end, of the device, normally the entire distal end, is configured to provide a bend angle of at least or about 180 over a distance of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, and in operation, the NPS, in the bent configuration, at its distal end, may have a bend radius of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, and in operation, the outer catheter, in the bent configuration, at its distal end, may have a bend radius of at least or about 10 mm.

Now referring to FIG. 16, the distal portion of the perfusion device 200 is shown, in a flexed configuration, including the inner catheter 1310 slidably engaged inside the inner lumen 1250 of the outer catheter 1210 and extending distally from the distal tip 1248 of the outer catheter. In operation, the perfusion device tracks over the guidewire previously positioned within the patient. Upon proximal withdrawal of the guidewire and enabling fluid flow through the inner lumen of the inner catheter blood (or other fluids) may be perfused distal to the clot. The outer catheter and the desired flexing of its distal end controls the curvature of the inner catheter by providing constraining limits (e.g., the inner catheter cannot optimally flex beyond the distal tip of the outer catheter) in the flexed configuration allowing for better conformity to, and navigating within, the major arteries at the base of the brain. In an embodiment, this configuration enables less reliance on catheter tip durometer (hardness), allowing the device to bend more easily while still allowing for good column strength to aide in crossing the clot.

The inner catheter 1310 is configured for removably sliding within the inner lumen 1250 of the outer catheter. In some embodiments, in operation, any one or more of the following may be practiced according to the methods embodying features of the present invention: perfusion of blood or other solution (e.g., thrombolytic agents) through either the outer catheter or the inner catheter alone; perfusion of blood, TPA, or other solution/s simultaneously through both the inner and outer catheters; or as shown by way of example in FIG. 16B, perfusion of blood through the inner catheter with the inner catheter distal tip 1348 placed distal to the clot 650 while simultaneously infusing tissue plasminogen activator (“TPA) or other thrombolytic agent/s through the outer catheter 1210 with its distal tip 1248 positioned substantially or entirely in the clot 650. The apertures 1260 in the outer catheter allow for larger un-interrupted contact between TPA or other thrombolytic agents, with the clot, potentially increasing the effectiveness of the agents.

In an embodiment, and in operation, the neuronal protection device or NPS (e.g., 1200) including the outer catheter, inner catheter, and guidewire; as it navigates the intracranial portions of the internal carotid artery bends at the distal portion thereof, at an angle up to about 180 degrees, relative to the catheter in the unbent and straightened configuration. In an embodiment, the tapered distal portion configured to provide such a bend angle, has a length sufficiently long to navigate the cavernous section of the internal carotid artery. In an embodiment, the distal portion is configured to bend back on itself (e.g., about 180 degrees) over a distance of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, the portion of the tapered distal portion configured to provide such a bend, is the distal end. In an embodiment, the distal end, of the device, normally the entire distal end, is configured to provide a bend angle of at least or about 180 over a distance of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, and in operation, the NPS, in the bent configuration, at its distal end, may have a bend radius of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, and in operation, the outer catheter, in the bent configuration, at its distal end, may have a bend radius of at least or about 10 mm. In an embodiment, as the outer catheter distal tip is flexed, the surface on the inside of the bend is in compression, and the surface on the outside is in tension. The width of the apertures located along the inside of the bend will decrease, and the width of the apertures located along the outside of the bend will increase, thereby relying less on the material properties in tension and compression and more on the geometry of the apertures and their placement along the tapered tip.

Now referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the distal portion of the neuronal protection device, embodying features of the present invention is shown, and including an outer catheter 1710 including an elongate member such as a tubular member 1720 having a proximal portion (not shown) with a proximal end (not shown), a distally tapered distal portion 1740 with a distally tapered end 1730 terminating in an open distal tip 1748.

In an embodiment, the distal portion 1740 is configured, such that in operation, it is juxtaposed with the distal intracranial internal carotid artery upon full placement of the outer catheter within the brain. In an embodiment, the tapered distal portion 1740 aids in navigating through the thrombus during advancement of the device (such as device 1200). In an embodiment, and without intending any limitations, it is believed the tapered distal portion assists with minimizing the hemolysis of the blood at the treatment. The distal tapering of the outer catheter and the relatively larger proximal bore design is further believed to minimize resistance along length of the outer catheter minimizing undesirable pressure drops during the operation of the device.

The tapered distal end 1730 may have a longitudinal dimension which is the same as that of the tapered distal portion 1740 (see FIG. 10, 11A) or shorter as shown in FIG. 11B.

The outer catheter distal end 1730 includes one or more apertures 1760; similar to those shown in FIG. 3B; or 11A and 11B, 12, and 13; extending from an outer surface 1765 of the outer catheter to an outer catheter inner lumen 1250. The apertures aid in the delivery of any one or more of fluids such as blood, therapeutic, diagnostic, or other suitable fluids through the outer catheter to or to the vicinity of the thrombus site, and/or application of suction/aspiration.

The NPS device, in an embodiment, is configured to incorporate features for suction/aspiration. Such configured device enables the devices and systems of the present invention to remove (complete or partial) and/or to aid/assist in removal of any one or more of blood clot, thromboembolus, foreign body; and/or provide embolic protection from debris liberated during mechanical thrombectomy and/or suction thromboaspiration.

In an embodiment features of which are shown in FIGS. 17A-17B, in operation, the NPS device is navigated to the site of the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/undesirable body 650.

The distal end 1730 and distal tip 1748 of the outer catheter 1710 are positioned within the blood clot 650. As shown, the distal tip is just proximal to a first location within the vessel 600, such as near bend 653. The inner catheter (not shown) is withdrawn proximally and removed from the clot area 650. Continuous suction/aspiration (generated by suitable means such as a syringe or vacuum source/pump 655 FIG. 1B) is applied through the outer catheter and transmitted through the side apertures 1760, creating a negative pressure or vacuum between the clot 650 and the outer catheter distal end 1730. The created suction pulls the clot into one or more of the apertures, engaging (e.g., mechanically) the clot, partially or completely, to the outer catheter distal end and/or distal tip. In an embodiment, at least part of the engaged clot is drawn at least partially inside the apertures. In the embodiment as shown the distal end is positioned completely within the clot. The level of negative pressure or vacuum generated, and the resulting engagement, may vary depending on the depth of insertion of the distal end inside the clot.

As the NPS device employs suction/aspiration, the clot 650 moves proximally from its original location (e.g., bend 653) (FIG. 17A) to a new location 654 proximal the original location 653 (FIG. 17B). In an embodiment, the suction/aspiration, as shown, liberates the clot 650 from the inner wall 602 of the vessel 600 creating gap 604 between clot 650 and inner wall 602 sufficient to remove clot.

In an embodiment, the level of negative pressure applied to help maintain the engagement ranges from about −0.1 in Hg to about −30 in Hg, normally from −25 in Hg to about −30 in Hg.

While maintaining the suction/aspiration, the outer catheter 1710 is slowly withdrawn into the balloon guide catheter/guide catheter/sheath (shown and described earlier). All or substantially all of the obstructing blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body is then removed from the site as it is held by the suction to the outer surface 1765 of the outer catheter distal end and/or apertures. In an embodiment, some of the blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body may be withdrawn into the outer catheter distal tip 1748.

Now referring to FIGS. 18A and 18B, in an embodiment, the NPS device may be configured to provide suction/aspiration through the outer catheter 1710.

As shown in FIGS. 18A & 18B, in an embodiment of a method embodying features of the present invention, the NPS device is navigated to the site of the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body 650 and tip 1748 of outer catheter 1710 is positioned within (FIG. 18A) the blood clot 650. As shown, a portion of the distal end is positioned proximally outside the clot. Once in place, inner catheter 1310 is pulled proximally. In an embodiment the inner catheter 1310 is withdrawn from proximal end of the NPS device leaving the distal tip 1748 positioned partially within the clot 650.

Continuous suction/aspiration (generated by suitable means such as a syringe or vacuum source/pump 655 (FIG. 1B) is applied through the outer catheter and transmitted through either or both the side apertures 1760 and/or the distal tip 1748. The application of the suction/aspiration provides a negative pressure and/or vacuum between the clot 650 and the catheter distal end 1730 (at either or both the outer surface 1765 of the distal end and the distal tip).

The suction pulls, all or part of the clot 650 into side apertures 1760 and/or distal tip 1748 of outer catheter 1710. In an embodiment, the outer catheter distal end 1730 may be mechanically engaged with all or part of the clot 650. This engagement aids in holding/grabbing the clot on the outer catheter distal end and/or within, at least partially, one or more of the apertures. In an embodiment, the level of negative pressure applied to help maintain this engagement ranges from about −25 inHg to about −30 inHg. In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 18B, as the NPS device engages in suction/aspiration the clot 650 moves proximally from its original location (e.g., bend 653) and/or liberates from the inner wall 602 of the vessel 600 (e.g., gap 604 created between clot 650 and inner wall).

While maintaining the suction/aspiration, the outer catheter 1710 is slowly withdrawn into the balloon guide catheter/guide catheter/sheath (shown and described earlier). In an embodiment, debris 651 liberated during suction thromboaspiration is withdrawn into the apertures helping prevent or mitigate the movement of the embolic particles 650. As shown in FIG. 18B the distal tip 1748 of the outer catheter extends distally beyond the distal end of the clot 650. As shown, a portion of the distal end including at least a portion of the side apertures are positioned inside the clot. As shown, debris 651 may also be withdrawn through the distal tip 1748. All or substantially all of the obstructing blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body is then removed from the site as it is held by the suction to the apertures. In an embodiment, some of the blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body may be withdrawn into the outer catheter distal tip 1748.

This use of the NPS device in this configuration provides one or both of the above described functions: assisting in the removal of a blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body and/or; and providing embolic protection from debris liberated during suction thromboaspiration.

The use of suction/aspiration through the NPS device to provide embolic protection helps prevent or mitigate the movement of the embolic particles 651 liberated during deployment of a thrombectomy device and subsequent mechanical thrombectomy and/or suction thromboaspiration, to previously uninvolved vascular territories which otherwise may cause further infarct burden that may potentially adversely affect the patient's clinical outcome.

Now referring to FIGS. 19A and 19B, in an embodiment, the NPS device may be configured to provide suction/aspiration through the outer catheter 1710 simultaneously during suction thromboaspiration being performed through the inner catheter 1310 or any other suction thromboaspiration tool that may be introduced through the outer catheter 1710.

The use of the NPS device in this configuration provides one or both of the above described functions: assisting in the removal of a blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body and/or; and providing embolic protection from debris liberated during suction thromboaspiration either from the proximal or distal end of the clot.

In an embodiment as shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B, as the NPS device engages in suction/aspiration the clot 650 dislodges from its original location (e.g., bend 653) and/or liberates from the inner wall 602 of the vessel 600 (e.g., gap 604 created between clot 650 and inner wall 602).

As shown, in an embodiment of a method embodying features of the present invention, the NPS device is navigated to the site of the obstructing blood clot/thromboembolus/foreign body 650 until distal tip 1748 of outer catheter 1710 is positioned partially within the blood clot 650 with a proximal portion of the outer catheter distal end 1730, and accompanying apertures, remaining outside of the clot. The inner tip 1348 of inner catheter is advanced just distal to the distal tip of the outer catheter and is disposed inside the clot.

Continuous suction/aspiration (generated by suitable means such as a syringe or vacuum source/pump 655 FIG. 1B) is applied, simultaneously, through the outer catheter and inner catheter, and transmitted through either or both the side apertures 1760 and/or the distal tip 1748, and distal end 1348. The application of the suction/aspiration provides a negative pressure and/or vacuum between the clot 650 and the catheter distal end 1730 at either or both the outer surface 1765 of the distal end and/or apertures, and the outer catheter distal tip; as well as inner catheter distal tip 1348.

The suction pulls, all or part of the clot 650 into side apertures 1760 and/or distal tip 1748 of outer catheter 1710 and/or the distal tip of the inner catheter 1348. In an embodiment, the outer catheter distal end 1730 may be mechanically engaged with all or part of the clot 650. This engagement aids in holding/grabbing the clot on the outer catheter distal end and/or within, at least partially, one or more of the apertures. In an embodiment, the level of negative pressure applied to help maintain this engagement ranges from about −25 inHg to about −30 inHg. In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 19B, as the NPS device engages in suction/aspiration the clot 650 moves proximally from its original location (e.g., bend 653) and/or liberates from the inner wall 602 of the vessel 600 (e.g., gap 604 created between clot 650 and inner wall).

While maintaining the suction/aspiration, the outer catheter 1710 and inner catheter, together, with their tips remaining inside the clot, are slowly withdrawn into the balloon guide catheter/guide catheter/sheath (shown and described earlier). In an embodiment, debris 651 liberated during suction thromboaspiration is withdrawn into the apertures helping prevent or mitigate the movement of the embolic particles 650. All or substantially all of the obstructing blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body is then removed from the site as it is held by the suction to the apertures and/or inner and outer catheter distal tips 1348 and 1748.

This use of the NPS device in this configuration provides one or both of the above described functions: assisting in the removal of a blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body and/or; and providing embolic protection from debris liberated during suction thromboaspiration.

The use of suction/aspiration through the NPS device to provide embolic protection helps prevent or mitigate the movement of the embolic particles 651 liberated during deployment of a thrombectomy device and subsequent mechanical thrombectomy and/or suction thromboaspiration, to previously uninvolved vascular territories which otherwise may cause further infarct burden that may potentially adversely affect the patient's clinical outcome.

In some configurations embodying features of the present invention, the continuous suction/aspiration provided through the outer catheter may help provide embolic protection by removing the debris liberated during deployment of a mechanical thrombectomy device. The continuous suction/aspiration provided through the inner catheter may help provide a stronger vacuum or negative pressure at the distal end of the NPS.

Now referring to FIGS. 20A-20D, and the corresponding cross sections FIGS. 21A-21D, in an embodiment, the NPS device may be configured to provide suction/aspiration through the outer catheter 1710 simultaneously during mechanical thrombectomy, such as a device called a “stentriever” (Solitaire, Trevo etc.), for removal of a blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body 650.

The use of the NPS device in this configuration provides one or both of the above described functions: assisting in the removal of a blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body and/or; and providing embolic protection from debris liberated during suction thromboaspiration.

In an embodiment, in operation, the NPS device is navigated to the treatment site of the obstructing blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body 650 and the distal tip 1748 of outer catheter 1710 is partially positioned within the obstructing blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body. As shown, while the distal tip 1748 is positioned within the clot 650, a proximal portion of the distal end (including some of the apertures) remains outside of the clot).

The inner catheter is advanced through the outer catheter until its distal end 1348 emerges just distal to the clot 650. Continuous suction/aspiration is then applied through the outer catheter 1710 and transmitted through the side apertures 1760 at the distal end 1730 of the outer catheter so a negative pressure is provided between the clot 650 and the catheter distal end (including the distal tip).

The stentriever is advanced through the inner catheter until it emerges from the distal tip 1348 of the inner catheter. As shown in FIG. 20A, the stentiever is being deployed, with the body of the stentretriever substantially still compressed in the microcatheter with the tip out.

The inner catheter is then withdrawn with the stentriever & the outer catheter held in place. As the inner catheter is withdrawn proximally the stentriever expands into the clot (FIG. 20B). During deployment of the thrombectomy device 2000 and the resulting restoration, in part or in total, of blood flow, there may be liberation of embolic particulate matter that moves downstream to previously uninvolved vascular territories may result in further infarct burden that may potentially adversely affect the patient's clinical outcome.

In an embodiment, the continuous suction/aspiration provided through the outer catheter may help provide embolic protection by removing the debris 651 liberated during deployment of a mechanical thrombectomy device (FIG. 20C).

Referring to FIGS. 20B, 20C, and 20D, and cross section FIGS. 21A, 21B, 21C & 21D the suction/aspiration continues to be applied through the outer catheter 1710 as the outer catheter and the mechanical thrombectomy device 2000 are slowly withdrawn simultaneously into the balloon guide catheter/guide catheter/sheath 510. This procedure, when used, removes the obstructing blood clot, thromboembolus, and/or foreign body using simultaneous suction/aspiration at the distal end of the outer catheter (through distal tip and/or apertures), and mechanical thrombectomy with the thrombectomy device. In an embodiment, the suction/aspiration provided through the tip of the outer catheter continues to provide embolic protection during the procedure.

As used herein “obstruction” refers to an unwanted obstruction including any one or more of blood clot, thrombus, or the like.

The entirety of each patent, patent application, publication and document referenced herein hereby is incorporated by reference. Citation of the above patents, patent applications, publications and documents is not an admission that any of the foregoing is pertinent prior art, nor does it constitute any admission as to the contents or date of these publications or documents.

Modifications may be made to the foregoing without departing from the basic aspects of the invention. Although embodiments of the invention have been described in substantial detail with reference to one or more specific embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that changes may be made to the embodiments specifically disclosed in this application, yet these modifications and improvements are within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Embodiments illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element(s) not specifically disclosed herein. Thus, for example, in each instance herein any of the terms “comprising,” “consisting essentially of,” and “consisting of” may be replaced with either of the other two terms. The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and use of such terms and expressions do not exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. The term “a” or “an” can refer to one of or a plurality of the elements it modifies (e.g., “a reagent” can mean one or more reagents) unless it is contextually clear either one of the elements or more than one of the elements is described. Thus, it should be understood that although embodiments have been specifically disclosed by representative embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and such modifications and variations are considered within the scope of this invention.

Certain embodiments of the invention are set forth in the claim(s) that follow(s). 

That which is claimed:
 1. A method for cerebral perfusion therapy of a patient, including: a. Providing a cerebral perfusion device including: i. An outer catheter configured for cerebral perfusion therapy and including a single lumen first elongate member having a proximal portion with a proximal end, a distally tapered distal portion having a distally tapered distal end and an open distal tip, an inner lumen extending along at least the outer catheter distal portion, a plurality of apertures disposed along the distal portion and extending from an outer surface of the first elongate member to the first elongate member inner lumen; and ii. An inner catheter configured for use in cerebral perfusion therapy and including a second elongate member having a proximal portion with a proximal end, a distal portion with a distal end and an open distal tip, a lumen extending along at least the inner catheter distal portion, the inner catheter configured for slidable coaxial advancement within the inner lumen of the outer catheter and through the outer catheter distal tip, and slidable disposal at a location near or at the vicinity of at least a portion of the outer catheter apertures; iii. Navigating the device intracorporeally through a patient's artery to a treatment site; iv. Applying suction thromboaspiration through at least a portion of the outer catheter to assist in removal of obstruction from the site and minimize embolic particles liberated during treatment of the treatment site from migrating to a previously uninvolved vascular territories.
 2. The method of 1, wherein at least a portion of the outer catheter distal end including at least some of the side apertures are positioned within the obstruction.
 3. The method of 2, wherein the outer catheter distal tip is positioned distal to a distal end of the obstruction.
 4. The method of 3, further including applying continuous suction/aspiration through the outer catheter side apertures forming negative pressure between the obstruction and the catheter tip.
 5. The method of 4, further including mechanically engaging the obstruction with the distal end of the outer catheter.
 6. The method of 2, wherein the outer catheter distal tip is positioned within the obstruction.
 7. The method of 6, further including applying continuous suction/aspiration through the outer catheter side apertures forming negative pressure between the obstruction and the catheter tip.
 8. The method of 7, further including mechanically engaging the obstruction with the distal end of the outer catheter.
 9. The method of 2, further including positioning at least a portion of the inner catheter distal end within the obstruction.
 10. The method of 9, wherein the inner catheter distal tip is positioned just distal to the outer catheter distal tip within the obstruction.
 11. The method of 9, wherein the inner catheter distal tip is positioned just distal to the distal end of the obstruction.
 12. The method of 9, further including providing aspiration through the inner catheter to assist in removal of the obstruction.
 13. The method of 12, further including withdrawing the inner catheter proximally.
 14. The method of claim 9, further including simultaneously providing suction thromboaspiration through the inner catheter.
 15. The method of claim 10, further including deploying a thrombectomy device, through the inner catheter, within the obstruction.
 16. The method of claim 15, further including simultaneously performing mechanical thrombectomy to remove the obstruction.
 17. The method of claim 16, further including simultaneously withdrawing the outer catheter and the thrombectomy device proximally.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein suction/aspiration continues to be provided through the outer catheter distal end to provide embolic protection.
 19. A method for cerebral perfusion therapy of a patient, including: a. Providing a cerebral perfusion device including: i. An outer catheter configured for cerebral perfusion therapy and including a single lumen first elongate member having a proximal portion with a proximal end, a distally tapered distal portion having a distally tapered distal end and an open distal tip, an inner lumen extending along at least the outer catheter distal portion, a plurality of apertures disposed along the distal portion and extending from an outer surface of the first elongate member to the first elongate member inner lumen; and ii. An inner catheter configured for use in cerebral perfusion therapy and including a second elongate member having a proximal portion with a proximal end, a distal portion with a distal end and an open distal tip, a lumen extending along at least the inner catheter distal portion, the inner catheter configured for slidable coaxial advancement within the inner lumen of the outer catheter and through the outer catheter distal tip, and slidable disposal at a location near or at the vicinity of at least a portion of the outer catheter apertures; iii. Navigating the device intracorporeally through a patient's artery to a treatment site; iv. Applying suction thromboaspiration simultaneously through at least a portion of the outer catheter and the inner catheter to assist in removal of obstruction from the site and minimize embolic particles liberated during treatment of the treatment site from migrating to a previously uninvolved vascular territories. 